Conservation parks in Connecticut

Dividend Pond and Ruins is a picturesque park located in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, United States. This tranquil oasis offers visitors the opportunity to explore the serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and historic ruins. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature. The ruins add a touch of mystery and intrigue to the landscape, making it a unique and fascinating destination for all ages. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a place to connect with history, Dividend Pond and Ruins is a must-visit destination in Rocky Hill.

Allanach-Wolf Woodlands is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 171 Back Road in Windham, Connecticut, United States. This beautiful natural oasis offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. With winding trails, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife, Allanach-Wolf Woodlands is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with loved ones, or simply a moment of reflection. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, this enchanting park is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Nathan Hale State Forest is a beautiful park located at 151 Case Road in Coventry, Connecticut, United States. This forest offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, it is the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Named after American Revolutionary War hero Nathan Hale, this state forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Poquetanuck Cove Preserve, located at 191 Avery Hill Road in Ledyard, Connecticut, is a beautiful park that covers 234 acres of woodland habitat and a significant portion of the Poquetanuck Cove shoreline. This tranquil preserve offers visitors the chance to witness a tidal estuary that supports a diverse range of freshwater biodiversity. A 1.5-mile loop trail takes visitors through various habitats and provides stunning views of the cove. Designated as a bird sanctuary by the State of Connecticut, the cove is home to wintering waterfowl and bald eagles in the winter months. Hiking, birding, and other forms of wildlife observation are encouraged at this preserve. Nearby, there is a canoe/kayak trail for those looking to paddle, although boat launching is prohibited on the preserve to protect the shoreline.

GLCT Westwoods Sam Hill Entrance is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on Sam Hill Road in Guilford, Connecticut, United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings, including hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and lush greenery. The entrance serves as a gateway to the stunning Westwoods Conservation Area, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, GLCT Westwoods Sam Hill Entrance is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Shoddy Mill-Coon Hollow is a picturesque park located at 50 Shoddy Mill Road in Glastonbury, Connecticut, United States. Nestled in a serene hollow, this charming park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature and relax in the beautiful surroundings. With walking trails, picnic areas, and lush greenery, Shoddy Mill-Coon Hollow is the perfect destination for a leisurely afternoon outdoors. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply unwind in nature, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Shoddy Mill-Coon Hollow today.

Ash Creek/Riverside Drive Open Space is a picturesque park located on Turney Road in Fairfield, Connecticut. This tranquil open space offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views of the Ash Creek, this park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, Ash Creek/Riverside Drive Open Space is the perfect destination for a relaxing day out.

Devil's Den Preserve, located at 33 Pent Road in Weston, Connecticut, is the largest preserve in Connecticut protected by The Nature Conservancy. Spanning 1,800 acres, it is also the largest tract of protected land in densely developed Fairfield County. This beautiful oasis for wildlife and natural filter for clean water offers visitors a variety of low-impact outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and cross-country skiing. With over 20 miles of trails winding past rocky crests, cliffs, and high ledges covered in grasses, mosses, and lichens, Devil's Den is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The preserve is home to over 500 types of trees and wildflowers, including rare species like the pink lady's slipper and Indian pipe.

Quaddick State Forest is a beautiful park located on Town Farm Road in Thompson, Connecticut, United States. This peaceful forest is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and more. With its scenic trails, lush greenery, and serene atmosphere, Quaddick State Forest is a great destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this state forest has something for everyone to enjoy.

Paffard Woods, located on North Main Street in Stonington, Connecticut, is a beautiful park managed by Avalonia Land Conservancy. This peaceful oasis offers visitors the opportunity to explore over 5,000 acres of conserved land, with the potential for even more to be acquired in the future. The park features a diverse range of natural beauty, including forests, sea views, historic stone walls, and flowing brooks and streams. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature, whether by taking photos for the annual photo contest or participating in a summer internship as a land steward. By supporting Avalonia through donations or volunteer work, individuals can help preserve these precious habitats for generations to come. Join us in our mission to protect and communicate the value of these irreplaceable resources in southeastern Connecticut. Contact us at avalonialc@yahoo.com or (860) 884-3500 to learn more about how you can get involved.

Gwyn Careg Inn is a charming lodging establishment located at 68 Wolf Den Road in Pomfret, Connecticut, United States. This cozy inn offers comfortable accommodations and personalized service to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay for all guests. With its picturesque surroundings and convenient location, Gwyn Careg Inn is the perfect destination for travelers looking to unwind and experience the beauty of Connecticut. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, you'll find a warm welcome and a home away from home at Gwyn Careg Inn.

Matson Hill Road Open Space is a beautiful park located at 97-43 Matson Hill Road in Glastonbury, Connecticut, United States. This serene and picturesque open space offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and tranquil atmosphere, Matson Hill Road Open Space is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy some quiet time outdoors, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Matson Hill Road Open Space today!

Chelsea Parade is a historic park located in Norwich, Connecticut, United States. This beautifully landscaped green space offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. The park features walking paths, benches, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. Chelsea Parade is also a popular venue for community events and gatherings throughout the year. Whether you're looking to unwind in a serene setting or participate in a local event, Chelsea Parade is a must-visit destination in Norwich.

Gristmill Open Space is a picturesque park located at 54 Mill Street in Shelton, Connecticut, United States. This tranquil oasis offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. With winding trails, lush greenery, and a historic gristmill, this open space is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or simply a moment of peaceful reflection. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a relaxing outdoor retreat, Gristmill Open Space has something for everyone to enjoy.

Bear Mountain Reservation is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 17 Bear Mountain Road in Danbury, Connecticut, United States. Spanning 140 acres of land, this charming destination features an outlook, a ranger cottage, and a convenient parking area for visitors. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Bear Mountain offers a variety of scenic trails to explore. Plus, with its dog-friendly policy, this is the perfect spot to bring your furry friend along for a day of outdoor adventure. Come discover the natural beauty and serenity of Bear Mountain Reservation today!

Algonquin State Forest, located in Winsted, Connecticut, is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction in the United States. This vast forest offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, winding trails, and serene natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, birdwatching, and picnicking in this beautiful outdoor oasis. Algonquin State Forest is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into the tranquility of the forest.

Tunxis State Forest is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 261 South Road in Connecticut, United States. This sprawling forest offers visitors a chance to connect with nature through its scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and serene fishing spots. With its diverse wildlife and lush greenery, Tunxis State Forest is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to explore the forest on foot or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Tunxis State Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Mattatuck State Forest is a sprawling natural oasis located in Thomaston, Connecticut. Covering over 4,000 acres, this park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching. The forest is home to diverse wildlife and boasts scenic views of the surrounding countryside. With numerous trails to explore and a peaceful atmosphere, Mattatuck State Forest is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

the marsh is visible from the Lighthouse Point Park boardwalk and is a great spot for birdwatching. The marsh is home to a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and osprey. The upland areas provide habitat for songbirds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The salt marsh is an important ecosystem that provides flood protection, water filtration, and habitat for many species. The Long Wharf Nature Preserve is a peaceful oasis in the midst of urban development, providing a place for people to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Long Wharf Nature Preserve has something for everyone. Visit today and experience the beauty of this unique urban nature preserve in New Haven, Connecticut."

Union Pond is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 448 Tolland Turnpike in Manchester, Connecticut, United States. This serene oasis offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, sparkling waters, and scenic walking trails, Union Pond is the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and birdwatching. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water, Union Pond is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Shepaug Eagle Viewing is a captivating museum and tourist attraction located at 2150 River Road in Southbury, Connecticut, United States. This institution offers visitors the unique opportunity to observe majestic eagles in their natural habitat along the Shepaug River. With educational exhibits and guided tours, visitors can learn about the conservation efforts to protect these magnificent birds. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike.

Nipmuck State Forest is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 166 Chestnut Hill Road in Connecticut, United States. This stunning forest offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in nature, with miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, have a peaceful picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Nipmuck State Forest is the perfect destination. Come and experience the serenity and tranquility of this picturesque forest retreat.

Jacobs Beach is a charming tourist attraction located at 140 Seaside Avenue in Guilford, Connecticut, United States. This beautiful beach offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing escape with its pristine sandy shores and stunning ocean views. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, Jacobs Beach is the perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation. Pack a picnic, bring a good book, or simply unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of this hidden gem on the Connecticut coast.

Oak Street Beach is a picturesque tourist attraction located along the Savin Rock Trail in West Haven, Connecticut. This beautiful beach offers stunning views of the Long Island Sound and is the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shores, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or taking a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastline. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, Oak Street Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, located at 733 Old Clinton Road in Westbrook, Connecticut, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. This refuge is home to a variety of birds, mammals, sea creatures, colorful trees, rare plants, historic buildings, and cultural features. Visitors can explore nature trails, wildlife observation platforms, and other visitor facilities throughout the refuge. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the weather, wear sturdy walking shoes, and use insect repellent in areas with mosquitoes. Visitors must stay on established trails and viewing platforms, as going off-trail is prohibited. Ranger and volunteer-led tours and programs are available to enhance the visitor experience.

Percival Field is a beautiful park located at 20 Highland Avenue in Berlin, Connecticut, United States. This institution offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. The park is meticulously maintained and features lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Percival Field is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The site design and content management of this institution is handled by CORE Business Technologies. Come visit Percival Field and experience the beauty and tranquility it has to offer.

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, located at 1875 Noble Avenue in Bridgeport, Connecticut, is a popular tourist attraction and zoo. Owned and operated by the Connecticut Zoological Society, this 501(c)(3) not-for-profit institution is dedicated to conservation, education, and providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. With a wide variety of animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational programs, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families in the United States.

Southington Open Space is a beautiful park located in Southington, Connecticut, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural beauty of the area for the enjoyment of the community. Visitors can explore hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks throughout the park. Southington Open Space is the perfect place to connect with nature and unwind in a peaceful outdoor setting. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll or immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings, this park offers something for everyone.

Skyline Scenic Area is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located at 367 Stafford Road in Somers, Connecticut, United States. Offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, this institution is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to explore the great outdoors, Skyline Scenic Area is sure to captivate and inspire all who visit.

Turtle Creek Preserve is a beautiful park located at 64 9, Essex, Connecticut, United States. This preserve offers visitors the chance to see basking turtles in Deitsch’s Pond, as well as enjoy a mile-long trail through mountain laurel thickets and beech groves along the Connecticut River. The preserve straddles the Essex/Old Saybrook town line and encompasses the mouth of Turtle Creek, a tidal estuary that supports wild rice and eel grass. Established with a generous gift from Dorothy S. Bowles, the Turtle Creek Preserve includes brackish tidal marshes and is part of the globally recognized wetlands complex of Tidelands of the Connecticut River. A local volunteer preserve monitor maintains the trails, ensuring they are well-kept for visitors to enjoy.